Are you ready to explore a world of flavors? Look no further than Korea’s beloved ingredient: sweet potatoes! These versatile tubers are the star of many delicious dishes in Korean cuisine. From savory pancakes and crispy wedges, to comforting porridges and decadent desserts, there’s something for every taste bud. In this article, we’ll be counting down our top 20 favorite Korean sweet potato recipes that you absolutely must try.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to spice up your meal routine, these sweet potato creations are sure to impress. From classic comfort foods to innovative twists on traditional dishes, we’ll show you the best ways to incorporate this humble ingredient into your cooking repertoire.
Korean Sweet Potato Pancakes
Korean Sweet Potato Pancakes (Yaksik-ppang) Recipe
A sweet and crispy Korean-style pancake filled with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, perfect as a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, flour, cornstarch, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Mix well.
2. Gradually add in the water and mix until a smooth batter forms.
3. Heat about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) of vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
4. Using a ladle, scoop the batter into the hot oil and flatten slightly with a spatula.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and drain excess oil. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Korean Sweet Potato Pancakes!
Roasted Korean Sweet Potato Wedges
Transform ordinary sweet potatoes into a deliciously crispy and flavorful snack with this easy recipe. Perfect for game days, movie nights, or as a healthy alternative to regular potato chips.
Ingredients:
– 2 large Korean sweet potatoes
– 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut sweet potatoes into wedges.
3. In a bowl, mix together gochujang, sesame oil, green onions, and sesame seeds.
4. Toss sweet potato wedges with the marinade until well coated.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the wedges in a single layer.
6. Roast for 30-35 minutes, or until crispy and caramelized.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Enjoy your deliciously roasted Korean sweet potato wedges!
Korean Sweet Potato Noodles (Japchae)
Japchae, a popular Korean dish, is a sweet and savory stir-fry made with sweet potato noodles, beef, and various vegetables. This recipe brings together the flavors of Korea in a quick and easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 200g sweet potato starch noodles (dangmyeon)
– 1/2 pound beef (thinly sliced), ribeye or sirloin
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup spinach leaves
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the sweet potato noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from wok and set aside.
3. Add more oil if needed, then sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
4. Add cooked noodles, beef, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, combining all ingredients.
5. Add spinach leaves and stir-fry until wilted.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Potato and Red Bean Porridge
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Sweet Potato and Red Bean Porridge, a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors. This nutritious porridge is perfect for a chilly morning or an afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the sweet potatoes, red kidney beans, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the porridge to a blender) to puree the mixture until smooth.
4. Stir in the honey and salt to taste.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped scallions or a dollop of yogurt if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Sweet Potato Latte
Get ready to cozy up with this warm and comforting Korean-inspired latte, featuring sweet potato as the star ingredient!
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the sweet potato cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a blender, combine roasted sweet potatoes, water, brown sugar, cinnamon, and ginger. Blend until smooth.
4. Add milk and butter to the blender and blend until well combined.
5. Pour the latte into cups and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (including roasting time)
Sweet Potato Kimchi Pancakes
Elevate your breakfast game with these crispy, flavorful pancakes packed with the bold taste of kimchi and sweet potatoes!
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup kimchi, finely chopped (use store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, flour, cornstarch, kimchi, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Add the beaten egg and mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 portions, depending on desired pancake size.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Cook each pancake for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as soy sauce, sriracha, or chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Sweet Potato Donuts
Sweet potato donuts are a popular Korean dessert that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a soft and fluffy texture. This recipe yields a batch of tender, sweet, and indulgently crispy donuts.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add mashed sweet potatoes, yeast, and milk to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth batter forms.
3. Cover the mixture with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
4. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (180°C).
5. Use a piping bag or spoon to drop the dough into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd.
6. Fry donuts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Drain excess oil and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Potato and Cheese Balls
Sweet Potato and Cheese Balls Recipe
A delicious twist on traditional cheese balls, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the creaminess of melted cheese. Perfect as an appetizer or snack for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, cheddar cheese, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix until well combined, then stir in the beaten egg.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
5. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each ball.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Sweet Potato Bread
This sweet potato bread recipe is a twist on traditional Korean bread, incorporating the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and a hint of spices. The result is a soft, fluffy loaf with a subtle sweetness and nutty flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and ginger.
2. Add yeast to the lukewarm water and let it sit for 5 minutes. Then, add the mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
3. Knead the dough for 10-12 minutes until elastic and shiny.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Shape the dough into a loaf and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet Potato and Honey Butter Toast
Sweet Potato and Honey Butter Toast: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Breakfast
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the richness of honey butter, all on toasted bread. Perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp pure honey
– 2 slices whole grain bread (e.g., baguette or ciabatta)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce sweet potatoes several times with a fork and roast for about 45 minutes, or until soft.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and honey until well combined.
3. Slice the roasted sweet potato into thin rounds.
4. Toast bread slices until lightly browned.
5. Spread a layer of honey butter on each toasted bread slice.
6. Top with a few pieces of roasted sweet potato and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes (for roasting sweet potatoes)
Korean Sweet Potato Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful Korean-inspired sweet potato soup!
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine diced sweet potatoes, chicken broth, onion, garlic, Gochujang, soy sauce, and sugar.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, let it cool and blend in a blender.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your warm and cozy Korean Sweet Potato Soup!
Sweet Potato and Walnut Salad
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this unique and flavorful salad featuring sweet potatoes and walnuts! This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, and can be easily customized to suit your dietary preferences.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes several times with a fork and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let sweet potatoes cool, then peel and dice into 1-inch cubes.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey.
5. Add diced sweet potatoes, chopped parsley, and walnuts to the bowl; toss gently to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour (including baking time)
Korean Sweet Potato Rice Cakes
Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of Korea with this simple recipe for sweet potato rice cakes. These chewy treats are perfect as a snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup Korean-style rice (or Japanese short-grain rice)
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, rice, and water. Mix well until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
3. Divide the dough into small portions (about the size of a golf ball).
4. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
5. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the rice cakes for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total
Enjoy your delicious Korean-style sweet potato rice cakes!
Sweet Potato and Cinnamon Tea
This soothing tea recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the comforting warmth of cinnamon, perfect for a cozy evening or a relaxing afternoon.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 4 cups water
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced.
3. Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.
4. Scoop out the flesh of the sweet potatoes and transfer it to a blender or food processor.
5. Add the ground cinnamon and blend until smooth.
6. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pot or teapot.
7. Add 4 cups of water to the pot and bring the tea to a simmer over medium heat.
8. Reduce the heat to low and let it steep for 10-15 minutes, or to your desired strength.
9. Strain the tea into cups and add honey or sugar to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Korean Sweet Potato Pizza
A unique fusion of Korean flavors with Italian-style pizza, this sweet potato pizza is a delightful twist on traditional toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 pre-made pizza crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds for garnish
– Mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil.
3. Arrange sweet potato slices on the pizza crust, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Brush the sweet potato with the Gochujang mixture.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese (if using) over the sweet potatoes.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and sweet potatoes are tender.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Potato and Coconut Milk Dessert
This creamy dessert combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the richness of coconut milk, creating a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes and coconut milk. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the honey or maple syrup and salt to the mixture. Stir until well combined.
3. If desired, add the heavy cream or half-and-half and stir until fully incorporated.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (cooking the sweet potatoes), 30 minutes (chilling the dessert)
Korean Sweet Potato Muffins
These sweet potato muffins are a unique fusion of Korean flavors and traditional baked goods. The sweetness from the sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the spices, creating a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, milk, egg, and oil. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in cinnamon and ginger.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Sweet Potato and Sesame Cookies
Sweet Potato and Sesame Cookies: A Delicious Twist on Classic Treats
These chewy cookies combine the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the nutty flavor of sesame seeds, making for a unique and addictive snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup sesame seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. Add the mashed sweet potatoes and mix until smooth.
5. Gradually add the flour, sesame seeds, and salt. Mix until just combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Korean Sweet Potato Skewers
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these crispy and sweet Korean-style skewers, perfect for a quick snack or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cut the sweet potatoes into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes.
3. In a bowl, whisk together sugar, water, soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Add the sweet potato cubes and let them sit for at least 30 minutes.
4. Thread 2-3 sweet potato cubes onto skewers.
5. Fry the skewers in batches for 3-4 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve warm. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Potato and Caramelized Onion Tart
Sweet Potato and Caramelized Onion Tart: A savory and sweet combination that’s perfect for a delicious dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange sweet potato and caramelized onion mixture on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Fold other half of pastry over filling, pressing edges to seal.
5. Brush egg wash over pastry and cut a few slits in top for steam to escape.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Note: To caramelize onions, cook sliced onions in olive oil over low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re dark brown and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and savory world of Korean cuisine with these 20 delicious recipes featuring sweet potatoes! From crispy pancakes and soft bread to hearty soups and decadent desserts, we’ve got you covered. Discover how to make mouthwatering dishes like Korean Sweet Potato Pancakes, Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges, and Sweet Potato Noodles (Japchae), plus many more innovative creations that combine the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with bold flavors and spices.